Right in the shadow of the huge church towers, it attracts visitors from all over the world with its amazing programme of over 100 Christmas events. At the centre, in front of the historic Domkulisse, is a 25m high Christmas tree, which, with its 50,000 lights, lights up the Christmas market.

The Cologne Cathedral market runs from 21 November to 23 December 2011, and is open Sun-Thurs 11am to 9pm, Fri 11am-10pm and Sat 10am to 10pm.You can find a great 360 degree panoramic view at www.weihnachtsmarkt360.de, and of course you find the right apartment for your trip to Cologne at 9flats.com. See our places in Cologne >